Bozavox BVX-01 Sonovox Handheld Vocal Sound Effect

I purchase one in 2023, and set it aside until recently, when I purchased a second one. I used these devices, marketed under "Sono Vox", back in 1974 in a recording studio. They are a little tricky to use, and you need to be aware of the limitations. First, you have to position the device over your throat, and specifically above the Trachea, and no higher than the chin. You want the Bozavox to vibrate the throat roughly where the vocal cords are located. Second, you need to "isolate" your sound source. Using your mixer, feed ONLY the sound you wish to use. Feeding drums and other instruments will sound very poor. Third, you need a small amplifier to drive the Bozavox. I used a 15 watt stereo amp, feeding the sound source to both channels (matched level) driving the left and right Bozavox. Do not use anything higher than 10-15 watts, and I generally run my level on the amp at 40%. Fourth, the most difficult part is holding the unit while playing something on a keyboard or tracking off a recording. In the 70s one of the engineers came up with a dog collar to hold the transducers in place. You just have to be creative and know what you can an can't do. Three ways to use these. 1). Live performance... the Bozavox must be connected to it's own amp. The sound engineer must feed ONLY the instrument to be used to the amp. The talent has to careful in picking them up, and putting them down. Dropping them can end their life. 2). Live studio... sometimes we would record the sonovox direct from a sound source in the studio. I like this as I can stand there with the devices on my neck, and see the musician start and end. It's team effort. We've done it with slide guitar, electric bass, 6-string electric guitar, saxophone (bass and tenor), clarinet, and Hammond organ. Note, I have done a session where I was playing the notes on the Mini Moog while holding the transducers with my left hand. Not easy, but we did the session. 3). Recorded track. The trick is to isolate ONLY the track you want to voice, and NOTHING else. We do that by using an Aux buss to feed the amplifier, then recording on a new channel/track. As mentioned, I've been familiar with these units since the 70s. They are a great effect for sound, but you have to know how to use them properly, and know the limitations.

Lack of support and clear instructions for usage. I’ve been trying to make this thing work from day 1 and nothing. End up wasting money on this and also the amplifier that I bought to try to make it work. Also the window for return was very short. At the time I made my mind to return it it was already closed.

The Bozavox is a fascinating instrument capable of very unique effects, but it requires a lot of practice. It's a steep learning curve but very satisfying.